As a Gentile learning about Judaism I went into Hammer's book with two hopes.

One was to learn what happens in a Jewish worship service so I would not feel totally lost when I eventually attend one. In this respect, the book did not fulfill my hopes fully. Hammer seemed to be one of those authors who loves his subject so much and knows so much about it that he can't resist telling you too much. He delved into historical minutiae that simply made my mind wander. He did cover the subject, he just let each chapter give too much information.

My second hope was that I would get insight in a self-help sort of perspective in teaching me how to pray. How to make prayer a meaningful part of my life. In this respect, the final chapter of the book was helpful. A short chapter called "Getting Started" it gave sensible and down to earth advice about what is required for prayer and how to achieve it.

I only wish the whole book had been as concise as the last chapter. ( )